Manipulating mRNA Decay Pathway to Regulate Gene Expression

The process of mRNA decay, such as the Staufen1 (STAU1)-mediated mRNA decay (SMD), is integral to the post transcriptional control of genes that have been shown to be involved in a number of diseases. Alu elements are the most prominent repeats in the human genome: they constitute more than 10% of the human genome. The inventors report novel roles for Alu elements and lncRNAs whereby SMD is activated upon the formation of STAU1-binding sites (SBS).

Technology ID:

6-1987

Applications:

Isolated inhibition of SMD could be useful in upregulating physiologic transcripts, in disease states caused by the lack of sufficient functional protein.

Advantages:

The involvement of SMD in modulating the expression of oncogenic, proto-oncogenic, angiogenic and immunologic transcripts makes it an attractive target for pharmacological manipulation and future therapeutic development.

Intellectual Property Status:

Additional international patent(s) pending

Inventors:

Lynne Maquat, PhD
Chenguang Gong

For Additional Information or for Licensing Opportunities:

Harl Tolbert
Associate Director, Biological Sciences
Office of Technology Transfer
585.784.8850

Category:

Therapeutic:Other Therapeutic

Keywords:

Gene Expression, Gene Silencing, RNA